LEIGHTON BAINES is at the centre of a £15million fight between Paris St Germain, Manchester United and Chelsea.

All three are ready to match Everton’s valuation of their England defender in the January transfer window and now manager David Moyes faces a huge battle to hang on to one of the club’s most prized assets.

PSG manager Carlo Ancelotti had intended to sign left-back Ashley Cole from his former club Chelsea in the summer, but the Italian now sees the younger Baines as a better option. Cole, out of contract in the summer after rejecting a new deal at Stamford Bridge, turned 32 just before Christmas.

Baines is only 28 and at the peak of his form.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is a long-time admirer of Baines and failed with a move for the former Wigan player in the summer. He is ready to go back in.

Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez, who wants at least three players in January to strengthen his side for a title run-in, has also earmarked Baines as one of his targets.

He sees the full-back as a long-term replacement for Cole.

Baines is only 28 and at the peak of his form

Like United, Chelsea have had scouts watching Baines in recent weeks, and Benitez is a big fan of a player he tried to sign when he was in charge at Liverpool.

Everton will be reluctant to sell Baines, who has flourished under the guidance of David Moyes and forced himself into the England squad. But indications are that if the price is right, they may not be able to resist.

Baines, who has 13 England caps, is having one of his best seasons at Everton, who paid Wigan £9m for him five years ago. He has been ever present as Moyes’ side continue their challenge for a Champions League place.

A PSG move for Baines could complicate matters for Cole, as it would leave him having to turn elsewhere in the summer. However, he is unlikely to be short of offers with Real Madrid having shown interest in the past.